Tara Thomas

AASA, Government Affairs Manager. Here for education policy news and cat videos.

[Tara Thomas @TaraEThomas1]

Every child has the right to a public education, no matter their immigration status. Despite the recent notices from ED + HHS regarding public benefits, student protections remain unchanged. This fact sheet explains what it means for immigrant students: https://t.co/4iRrQCyaDv

[Children Thrive Action Network (CTAN) @LetKidsThrive]

As we head back to school, remember that immigrant students have rights! Learn more with this resource from @AFTunion, @NILC, @CLASP_DC, and @UNITEDWEDREAM
https://t.co/MdQQLTUuUM

[David Gonzalez @dagonzal19]

I don't think it is widely known that the federal government is withholding funds that were already allocated for the upcoming school year. Schools and districts were counting on these $$$ and making decisions accordingly. This is a disaster for students, teachers, and families.

[Noelle Ellerson Ng @Noellerson]

Here’s the money (horrible pun intended) excerpt from the letter they sent to states:

[Tara Thomas @TaraEThomas1]

While we watch BBB, ED announced that the remaining FY25 K12 allocations won't go out tmrw as they historically have. School leaders must be able to rely on stable fed funding - esp those already appropriated. See how much is at stake for your state here: https://t.co/vGafzaEB8I

[Tara Thomas @TaraEThomas1]

https://t.co/rxTqIZSzs8

[Tara Thomas @TaraEThomas1]

Hey Supts! I’m looking for a school district that participates in the Teacher and School Leader Incentive Grant Program! Please reach out if you have or can recommend a colleague.

[Tara Thomas @TaraEThomas1]

Happy Abbott Elementary + It's Always Sunny Crossover Day to all who celebrate!

[Noelle Ellerson Ng @Noellerson]

The annual AASA superintendent salary + benefits survey is now live. We'd love you to take the time to share your information.

Check your inbox; a reminder email went out today, and the survey is open through Nov 26.

Don't see your invite? Email @TaraEThomas1.

CC @AASAdvocacy

[Tara Thomas @TaraEThomas1]

Congress made some moves last night! The House passed the Social Security Fairness Act and the Senate passed Secure Rural Schools reauth! There are still more hurdles to overcome but this is good progress. MOre here: https://t.co/1OkvadmDlC

[Tara Thomas @TaraEThomas1]

A little levity for you during these tough times.

[Oregon Zoo @OregonZoo]

Punkin dunkin

[Noelle Ellerson Ng @Noellerson]

Peep the latest @AASAdvocacy resource, our transition memo for the next administration.

We #LovePublicEducation and are committed to supporting and crafting federal education policy that strengthens public schools for the students they serve.

[Tara Thomas @TaraEThomas1]

A quick reminder that the American Superintendent Survey (AKA Decennial 5 Year Update) is now open until Friday. If you are a superintendent, please take some time to fill it out. The link should be in your inbox, but reach out to me if you need access!

[Noelle Ellerson Ng @Noellerson]

It’s #AdvocacyInAction week for @AESAnetwork. Follow me and @TaraEThomas1 for all the fun!

[Tara Thomas @TaraEThomas1]

Attn Supts! The 2025 Decennial Survey - Five Year Update is now live! Please take 15 minutes to fill it out. This will be the first report on the roles and duties of the superintendency since the pandemic. Survey should be in your inbox. Email me if you need assistance.

[Tara Thomas @TaraEThomas1]

Got ARP-HCY funds? @SchoolHouseConn is hosting a webinar on Sept. 4 to discuss what to do before the Sept. 30 deadline and answer questions for school leaders on spending down these funds to support our most vulnerable students. Register here. https://t.co/b0VI3YW7vv

[Tara Thomas @TaraEThomas1]

TODAY AT 1:45pm ET! Be sure to tune in.

[AASA @AASAHQ]

Join @AASAHQ president @Supt_Balderas for the @USDA and @usedgov Virtual Back to School Pep Rally to celebrate healthy school meals! 🥪🎒 Happening at 1:45 pm ET on August 29.

🔗 Tune in at: https://t.co/4RGZhqK65W

#BackToSchool #SchoolMeals

[Tara Thomas @TaraEThomas1]

A great article on the importance of the Secure Rural Schools Program. Thank you @educationweek for covering such an important topic.
A Funding Lifeline for Rural Schools Is at Risk, and Not for the First Time https://t.co/zhYUn9Hmkr

[Tara Thomas @TaraEThomas1]

Just bringing this back to your feed in case you need to smile. (But this is not an official endorsement of a VP pick, that is above my pay grade 😉)

[More Perfect Union @MorePerfectUS]

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has signed a law guaranteeing free breakfast and lunch for all students in the state, regardless of how much money their parents make. Tens of thousands of food-insecure kids will benefit.

[Tara Thomas @TaraEThomas1]

Luckily I’m better at advocating for Federal education funding than I am at taking selfies. A great day of meetings with @edfunding #CEFHillDay talking about the importance of robust investments in education.